Thorectidae [Thorectidae]

Description

The Thorectidae family includes a diverse group of sponges known for their elaborate shapes, including fans, cups, and branching forms. These sponges are often brightly colored, adding to the visual diversity of coral reef environments. Thorectidae sponges are significant for their symbiotic relationships with photosynthetic algae, which live within their tissues and provide nutrients to the sponge through photosynthesis. This relationship allows Thorectidae sponges to thrive in nutrient-poor waters where other organisms might struggle.

Genera

Taxonomy